IIM Kozhikode partners with Walmart Global Tech to nurture Indian deeptech startups

IIM Kozhikode’s business incubator, IIMK LIVE, has teamed up with Walmart Global Tech to launch DEEP LEAP, a new incubation programme designed to nurture promising deeptech ventures across the country.

This is Walmart Global Tech’s first formal institutional partnership in India dedicated to deep tech, bringing together academic incubation capabilities with the resources and reach of a global retail technology leader.

Supported by a total funding of Rs 2.89 Cr, which is part of Walmart’s CSR funds, Rs 1.5 crore will be set aside for equity investment or seed funding support for selected startups in this program.

DEEP LEAP will focus on early-stage startups that already have a prototype or minimum viable product. The programme is aimed at founders building in high-impact fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, autonomous systems, space technology, aerospace, semiconductors, and photonics.

From an initial pool of around 1,500 applicants nationwide, 50 startups will be chosen for a 12-month cohort. During the year-long programme, founders will receive strategic business support, go-to-market mentorship, product validation, investor readiness coaching, and a platform to present their tech on a dedicated Demo Day.

Speaking on the launch, Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, Director of IIM Kozhikode and Chairman of IIMK LIVE, noted that deeptech isn't just about crafting more advanced software or hardware—it is about addressing fundamental challenges to create meaningful impact. He emphasised that combining the strengths of academia, industry, and entrepreneurship through DEEP LEAP will help connect local founders with global opportunities.

Rahul Ghosh, Group Director of Data Science at Walmart Global Tech, shared a similar outlook on the initiative’s broader goals: "Walmart Global Tech is a people-led, tech-powered organisation and we believe in serving communities through the power of technology. Our partnership with IIM Kozhikode LIVE on supporting deep tech startups brings this vision to life. This unique collaboration at the intersection of academia and entrepreneurship is well-positioned to advance cutting-edge technology and make a meaningful, positive difference in the communities we serve. I am excited about the potential research and innovation impact that this partnership will create, not just for India but at a global scale."